The manhunt for the suspect in Sunday morning’s stabbing attack near al-Auja in the Jordan Valley has ended with his arrest, according to the Israel Defense Forces. Israeli forces said the suspect was captured following a joint operation involving intelligence guidance and capabilities from the IDF and Shin Bet. He was transferred for continued investigation as authorities moved to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack.

The arrest follows hours of intensive searches across the al-Auja and Jericho areas after the attacker fled the scene. Security forces had established roadblocks and deployed multiple units while soldiers questioned suspects and gathered intelligence to track the assailant. The operation ultimately produced the intelligence lead that enabled forces to locate and apprehend him.

The stabbing victim, 24-year-old Elchanan Hanania of Beitar Illit, was moderately wounded and evacuated to Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem after receiving emergency treatment. Earlier reports said he had stopped near a shopping area when the attacker approached and stabbed him before fleeing. The arrest now shifts the focus from the manhunt to the suspect’s interrogation and the collection of additional evidence.

The attack prompted a major security response along Route 90 and in the surrounding Jordan Valley, including roadblocks, searches and intelligence operations. The IDF said the arrest was made possible through coordinated efforts by security forces, demonstrating the importance of intelligence collection in tracking a fleeing suspect across the area. The suspect remains in custody while the investigation continues.

The arrest marks a significant development in the case, but investigators still face questions about the attack, including the suspect’s motives, movements and whether anyone assisted him. Israeli security officials said they will continue operating against anyone who harms or attempts to harm Israeli civilians or IDF personnel. With the suspect now in custody, authorities can pursue those questions through the ongoing investigation.